Packaging, storage and display apparatus and system

ABSTRACT

The present invention is directed to a packaging, storage and display system for articles, such as small tools, like drill bits and the like. An index for holding the articles is pivotably mounted in a case. A rack, which may be selected from a variety of rack structures, is mounted within the index, for holding articles having particular sizes and shapes. A frame structure is resistively pivotably mounted on the index, so that the frame structure may be pivoted to a particular position relative to the index, and will tend to remain in that position, until a force in excess of a particular amount is exerted on the frame structure. The index and/or the frame structures may be interchangeably mounted.

This application is a continuation-in-part, and claims priority of the filing date, of U.S. Ser. No. 10/636,972, filed Aug. 7, 2003, and presently pending, the entire disclosure of which is hereby expressly incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. The Technical Field

The present invention is directed to packaging, storage and display devices, such as are used for containing articles such as drill bits (for example, high speed, masonry, wood, general use bits, etc.), driver bits, other power tool and hand tool accessories and the like.

2. The Prior Art

Containers for packaging, storage and display of tools, particularly small tool items, such as drill bits, saw blades, bolt- and screwdriver bits, sockets and the like are known.

Some such containers are formed as a hinged plastic or metal two-piece hinged case, that is held closed by a resilient plastic or metal latch that is simply bent back to release a detent, and permit the two parts of the two-piece hinged case to be pivoted away from one another, to open like a book. The parts of the two-piece hinged case may have approximately the same dimensions, but be formed as essentially mirror images of each other, except for the latch structure.

In each part of the two-piece hinged case, positions for holding parts, e.g., drill bits, may be formed directly into the inner surfaces, in the form of pairs of prongs that are spaced apart and sized, so that each part position is formed to hold a specific drill bit (or other part) having a specific diameter or nominal size. That is, a bit of a particular size is pressed between the respective prongs (usually concave toward one another) of the respective pairs and snap-fitted in. Alternatively, elongated slots of different lengths and widths may be formed directly into the inside surfaces of the two-piece hinged case parts.

Alternatively, instead of forming prongs or slots directly into the inside surfaces of the two-piece hinged case parts, molded or stamped non-moving inserts that have specifically sized slots formed in them, may be positioned into the interior spaces of the two-piece hinged case parts. One such drill bit holder is sold by DeWalt® under the name New Guaranteed Tough™ Case.

In more complex versions, a bar or block (usually called an “index”) may be fitted into the bottom portion of one or both parts of the two-piece hinged case. The index may have a number of blind bores or combinations of bores and aligned slots formed into it, again having different diameters, and possibly different depths as well, to receive tool parts (e.g., drill bits) of different size.

The index is often formed as a single piece that may be blow or injection molded (if plastic) or stamped (if made of thin metal). Often, the sizes (or other information) of the tools that are to be held in the index are printed or stamped into the front or back of the index, lined up with the locations of the respective tools.

The index may be fixed in place, such as by gluing or welding, simple friction or snap-fit. In some prior art tool bit holders, the index is provided at the opposite ends with male or female dovetail components that interfit with counterpart female or male dovetail components formed into the inside surfaces of the side walls of the two-piece hinged case part. One such drill bit holder is made and sold by Blu-Mol under the mark “Armor-Case”.

In these three types of cases, the cases are fixed both in the sense that only specifically sized bits can be held in the cases, and in the sense that because the indexes (if provided) do not move, there is some limitation to the accessibility of the tool bits.

Alternatively the index may be provided with bumps that project from the ends of the index, that are received, e.g., in a snap-fit manner, in corresponding recesses, bores or slots formed in the inside walls of the two-piece hinged case part. In some prior art embodiments, the index must be bent or deformed in order to fit into the receiving recesses, bores or slots. These recesses, bores or slots may be provided in one or a number of pairs, so that the index may be placed at various locations along the “height” of the two-piece hinged case part. This permits the bar or index to be pivoted, relative to the two-piece hinged case part, so that the access to the parts is improved. Additional, smaller resilient projections may be provided to act as detents to hold the bars in place in their recessed positions. Pivoting of the bars out of their recessed positions thus requires some small effort to overcome the frictional or interference resistance of the smaller resilient projections. One such case is made and sold under the Skil® trademark.

In other prior art embodiments, the index, in addition to being configured to pivot, may be formed as a two-piece construction. One portion of the index engages, in a snap-fit manner, to the inside surface of the two-piece hinged case part, and is pivotably connected to the other portion of the index which pivots upwardly and out of the plane of the two-piece hinged case part. One example of such a case is made for and sold by Sears® under the Craftsman® mark, with the particular index construction being marketed under the mark Speed-Dex™). In this construction, the front area of the index that faces the user is open, so that there is no room for indicia in front of each bore, to indicate the bit sizes. In this product, the holder of the pivoting portion of the index must be glued in place, against the inside surfaces of the case part.

In the previously-mentioned case made and sold under the Skil® trademark, the index is formed from two pieces of a molded rubber or rubber-like material. One piece has a U-shaped cross-section, that forms the front, bottom and rear of the index. The second piece is a mostly solid wedge-shaped block, that is insertingly received and molded, glued or welded into the first piece, and has apertures formed in it to receive the shanks of the tool pieces.

In other kinds of tool part holders, the case may be formed again as a two-piece hinged case, but with the hinge located at the bottom of the case. One portion of the case is often larger or has more depth than the other portion. One of the portions may include a hole at the top, to permit the case to be hung from a hook, such as on a store shelf or in a workshop. These cases may also be fabricated from metal, plastic or a combination of metal and plastic.

Such bottom-hinged cases usually include an index that is pivotably connected to both parts, often using the axis of pivoting of the two parts also as the axis of pivoting for the index, and held in place by wire and metal rivets. In some of these prior art constructions, there may be provided detents or ridges on one or both of one of the case parts and the index. Upon opening of the case, once the two parts have been pivoted away from one another by a certain angle or amount, the index is forced or at least prompted to pivot away from one or both case parts. This results in the index being moved to an angular position somewhere between the two case parts. Alternatively, a hook or wire may connect one of the case parts to the index, to both prompt movement of the index and hold the index in place once the case has been opened. Such cases are used to package and sell drill bits sold by MIBRO®.

These cases can exhibit certain characteristics that may make them less than optimal, such as that in some prior art cases having indexes that are not positively affixed, the indexes can fall out when the cases are opened. In some of the two-piece hinged case (book-opening style) cases, the indexes may be configured to pivot, but once out of their recessed positions, there is nothing to hold the index in its elevated position, so that the index tends to fall back into the case part from which it has been pivoted. Alternately, in the bottom hinged cases, the interlocking of the index to the movements of the case parts constrains the movement and positioning of the index to a single specific position, when the case has been opened to its in-use position.

It would be desirable to provide a packaging, storage and display case for holding small tool parts, that is capable of adaptation to accommodate different combinations of tools of different sizes.

It would also be desirable to provide a packaging, storage and display case for holding small parts, that is provided with an index that is capable of being moved to a variety of different positions, and held in any such different position.

It would also be desirable to provide a packaging, storage and display case for holding small parts, that is provided with an index that can be moved between stowed and deployed positions repeatedly, while reliably maintaining the selected stowed positions.

It would be desirable to provide a system of packaging, storage and display components that provides for enhanced flexibility in packaging and storage of individual tool parts.

These and other desirable characteristics of the present invention will become apparent in view of the present specification, including claims, and drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention comprises, in part, a packaging, storage and display apparatus for articles. A case is provided, having at least one case section that defines an interior volume for receiving articles. At least one index is pivotably mounted in the at least one case section, and is pivotably movable between a stowed position within the at least one case section, and a deployed position. The at least one index is operably configured to receive and retain an end of at least one article. A frame structure is pivotably mounted to the index. Rotation control structure interconnects the frame structure and the index, operably configured to enable at least a portion of the frame structure to remain in a first position relative to the index until a force greater than a predetermined amount is applied, prompting the portion of the frame structure to move to one of a plurality of possible second positions relative to the index, and to further enable the portion of the frame structure to remain in the one of a plurality of second positions upon removal of the force, wherein the frame structure includes at least one surface which engages with a corresponding mating surface of the at least one index, and the rotation control structure comprises mating ratchet structures disposed on the at least one surface of the frame structure and the corresponding mating surface of the at least one index.

The rotation control structure preferably comprises at least one male ratchet member, disposed on one of the frame structure and the index, and having an first axis of pivoting, and a projecting contoured portion with contoured ratchet surfaces disposed circumferentially about the first axis of pivoting on a radially outwardly facing surface of the projecting contoured portion; and at least one female ratchet member, disposed on the other of the frame structure and the index, and having a second axis of pivoting, and a recess centered on the axis of pivoting, and a plurality of complementary contoured ratchet surfaces disposed circumferentially about the second axis of pivoting on a radially inwardly facing surface of the recess. The at least one first male ratchet member being is received in the at least one female ratchet member, the first axis of pivoting being disposed coaxially with the second axis of pivoting.

The contoured ratchet surfaces of the male ratchet member may comprise a plurality of convex projections. The plurality of complementary contoured ratchet surfaces of the female ratchet member may comprise a plurality of concavities.

Alternatively, the contoured ratchet surfaces of the male ratchet member may comprise a plurality of concavities, and the plurality of complementary contoured ratchet surfaces of the female ratchet member may comprise a plurality of convex projections.

Alternatively, the plurality of complementary contoured ratchet surfaces of the female ratchet member and the contoured ratchet surfaces of the male ratchet member may comprise complementary sets of radially extending projections.

The present invention also comprises, in part, a packaging, storage and display apparatus for articles. A case has at least one case section that defines an interior volume for receiving articles. At least one index is pivotably mounted in the at least one case section, the at least one index being pivotably movable between a stowed position within the at least one case section, and a deployed position. The at least one index is operably configured to receive and retain an end of at least one article. A frame structure is pivotably mounted to the index. At least one retaining pin is operably positioned in the at least one case section, for releasably engaging and retaining at least one of the frame structure and the at least one index when the at least one index is disposed in its stowed position.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a packaging, storage and display case according to one example of the present invention.

FIG. 2. is a perspective view of two indexes, in exploded views, for use in the case of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the indexes of FIG. 2, showing one index in assembled form, the other in exploded form.

FIG. 4 is a view of an index of FIG. 2 in the final stage of assembly.

FIG. 5 is an end view of the index of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the index of FIG. 4.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of two assembled indexes and their movable frame parts, shown in exploded view.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the components of FIG. 7, showing one of the frame parts assembled to its index.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the components of FIG. 7, showing both frame parts assembled to their respective indexes.

FIG. 10 is a view of the indexes of FIG. 7, with their respective frame parts, with one of the frame parts shown pivoted relative to its index.

FIG. 11 is a view of an index from FIG. 7, which is provide with a two frame parts in which both components are relatively pivotable.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a two-piece hinged case, with two indexes and their respective frame parts, prior to placement of the indexes in the two-piece hinged case parts.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the case of FIG. 12, with one of the indexes about to be positioned in a two-piece hinged case part.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view illustrating the pivoting movement of an index and frame part relative to a two-piece hinged case part, in a case according to FIG. 12.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the case of FIG. 12, showing how an index and frame part can pivot into a recessed or stowed position within a two-piece hinged case part.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the case of FIG. 12, with both indexes inserted into their respective two-piece hinged case parts, with one in a raised or deployed position.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the case of FIG. 12, with one frame part pivoted relative to its respective index.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the case of FIG. 12, with both frame parts pivoted relative to their respective indexes.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the case of FIG. 12 with both indexes deployed.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the case of FIG. 12 with both indexes stowed and the case partially closed.

FIG. 21 is an inside elevation of one part of an index case according to the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a top view of the index cover part of FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 is a rear view, partially in section, of the index cover part of FIG. 21.

FIG. 24 is an end view of the index cover part of FIG. 21.

FIG. 25 is a sectional end view of the index cover part of FIG. 21.

FIG. 26 is an inside elevation of the other part of an index case according to the present invention.

FIG. 27 is a top view of the index cover part of FIG. 26.

FIG. 28 is a rear view of the index cover part of FIG. 26.

FIG. 29 is a side elevation of the index cover part of FIG. 26.

FIG. 30 is a side elevation of a frame part which may be used with an index of the present invention.

FIG. 31 is an end view of the frame part of FIG. 30.

FIG. 32 is a top view of the frame part of FIG. 30.

FIG. 33 is a side elevation of a pivot pin for use with an index of the present invention.

FIG. 34 is an end view of the pivot pin of FIG. 33.

FIG. 35 is a front view of the pivot pin of FIG. 33, rotated 90° from the view of FIG. 33.

FIG. 36 is a top plan view of a two-piece hinged case part according to the present invention.

FIG. 37 is a side sectional view of the two-piece hinged case part of FIG. 36 , taken along line A-A of FIG. 36.

FIG. 38 is a front view of a retaining pin for use in a two-piece hinged case of the present invention.

FIG. 39 is an enlarged detail of a surface contour of the retaining pin, according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 40 is a side view of the retaining pin of FIG. 38.

FIG. 41 is an end view of the retaining pin of FIG. 38.

FIG. 42 is a side elevation in section of the ratchet mechanism in the interface between the frame parts and the indexes, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 43 is an elevation of one component of the ratchet mechanism of FIG. 42.

FIG. 44 is an elevation of the other component of the ratchet mechanism of FIG. 42.

FIG. 45 is a side elevation, in section, showing the functional components of a ratchet mechanism in the interface between the frame parts and the indexes, according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, taken along lines 45-45 in FIGS. 46 and 47, respectively.

FIG. 46 is a front elevation of one component of the ratchet mechanism of FIG. 45.

FIG. 47 is a front elevation of the other component of the ratchet mechanism of FIG. 45.

FIG. 48 is a perspective view of the component of FIG. 46.

FIG. 49 is a perspective view of the component of FIG. 47.

FIG. 50 is an elevation of an alternative ratchet component.

FIG. 51 is an elevation of an alternative ratchet component, which is complementary to the component of FIG. 50.

FIG. 52 is an elevation of an alternative ratchet component.

FIG. 53 is an elevation of an alternative ratchet component, which is complementary to the component of FIG. 50.

FIG. 54 is a front elevation of a retaining pin according to an alternative preferred embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 55 is a side elevation of the retaining pin according to the embodiment of FIG. 54.

FIG. 56 is a top plan view of the retaining pin according to the embodiment of FIG. 54.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

While this invention is susceptible of embodiment in many different forms, there is shown in the drawings and will be described in detail several specific embodiments, with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered an exemplification of the principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the embodiments illustrated.

While the packaging shipping and display cases of the present invention may preferably be formed from plastic materials, formed by any suitable method such as injection- or blow-molding, it is to be understood that any suitable material may be used, such as thin, resilient metal.

Any numerical values or dimensions, or indications of color or surface finish that may be provided in the drawings are given merely by way of example, and the invention is not intended to be limited in any way by such indicia.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a packaging, shipping and display case (“tool case” for short) 100 in accordance with the principles of the present invention. Tool case 100 includes two-piece hinged case parts 102 and 104, with index 106 with frame part 108, and index 110 with frame parts 112 and 114.

As mentioned elsewhere herein, while a preferred embodiment of the invention is discussed in the environment of a conventional two-piece hinged case for holding drill bits, it is to be understood that the particular shape of the case, in which the actual tool-holding components are mounted, is not crucial, and the invention is not intended to be limited by the shape, size or configuration of the case, apart from the fact that the interior surfaces of the case need to have the mounting structures discussed herein, and as shown in FIGS. 1, 12, 14, and 19, for example.

FIG. 2 illustrates perspective exploded views of indexes 106 and 110, which may be identical (as illustrated in this application), but which may have some structural differences (not relating to the principles of the present invention), as dictated by the requirements of any particular application. Index 106 includes index cover part 116, rack 118, and index cover part 120. Index cover part 116 has formed thereon ratchet structure 122 (to be described in further detail herein), with a similar structure located at the opposite end of index cover part 116. Rack 118, the structure of which will be discussed in greater detail herein, is preferably insertably received in index cover part 116, in slots that run along the inner surface of index cover part 116, from one side to the other (as shown on the inside of index cover part 124), or alternatively just in the inside surfaces of the sides (not shown). Index cover part 116 and index cover part 120 are preferably held together with a snap-fit, as may be accomplished by resilient barbs 130, preferably located on both ends of the inside surface of index cover part 120, which may be configured to engage pegs 134, 136. Index cover part 118 also includes openings 121 at opposite ends.

Rack 118 is formed as two parallel “horizontal” webs 123, 125 that are connected by one or more “vertical” webs (not shown in FIG. 2). A plurality of apertures of various diameters are formed in the webs, with the diameters of the apertures in web 123 having like sized counterparts in web 125. In addition, stirrup structures (e.g., stirrup 127) may be provided, so that the tools (e.g., drill bits) do not “bottom out” in index 106, but are instead elevated above the bottom of index 106, for the purpose, for example of causing the top ends of the tools to present a particular desired profile.

Alternative rack structures may be used, including various stirrup structures, and apertures of different size and shape, including round and triangular (though other shapes are contemplated).

Index 110 includes index cover part 124, rack 126 and index cover part 128. Ratchet structure 130 is preferably located at both ends of index cover part 124, as are openings 138. Rack 126 is likewise insertably received in index cover part 124, in suitably formed slots on the inside surface thereof. Index cover part 128 is preferably joined to index cover part 124 by barbs 140 that engage pegs positioned similarly to pegs 134, 136.

FIG. 3 illustrates index 106 fully assembled, while FIG. 4 illustrates index 110 in the last stage of assembly. FIG. 5 is an end perspective view of index 110, showing ratchet structure 130, and FIG. 6 is a top, perspective view of index 110, showing the top portion of rack 126, and the apertures which are configured, in this embodiment, to receive the shanks of tool bits (e.g., drill bits) of progressively increasing diameter.

FIG. 7 illustrates an exploded view of index 106 with its frame part 108, and index 110 with its frame parts 112 and 114. Frame part 108 which may be of any desired shape has formed thereon ratchet structures 150 on inwardly facing surfaces of frame part 108, each of which is configured to cooperate with a corresponding ratchet structure 122, as will be described later. Likewise, ratchet structures 152 on outwardly facing surfaces of frame part 112 will cooperate with corresponding ratchet structures 130 on index 110, and ratchet structures 154 on inwardly facing surfaces of frame part 112 will cooperate with corresponding ratchet structures 156 on outwardly facing surfaces of frame part 115. Frame part 108 is essentially a web of plastic material that forms a loop from one end to the other to define the space (when the frame part is “flat” with the index) in which the tool bits are enclosed. A bracing web, if desired, may be extended across frame part 108.

FIG. 8 illustrates how frame part 108 fits onto index 106. The ends of frame part 108, being resilient, are preferably spaced apart such a distance that they need to be sprung outwardly slightly, to ride over the surfaces of ratchet structures 122, and snap into place. The cooperation of the ratchet structures on index 106 and frame part 108 will be described herein. FIG. 9 illustrates indexes 106 and 110, with frame parts 108, 112 and 114 in place.

FIG. 10 illustrates how frame part 108 can pivot relative to index 106. To the left of index 106 is a schematic illustration of how ratchet structures 122 and 150 engage. Each of ratchet structures 122 and 150 include a plurality of radially extending ridges that are triangular in cross-section. Being resiliently sprung, the ends of frame part 108 will upon application of sufficient force, move outwardly, so that the respective ridges on each of ratchet structures 122 and 150 will ride up over one another, and return into the next successive “notch” between adjacent ridges, in the known manner of ratchet-type structures.

Frame part 108 is (as is the corresponding frame structure for index 110) provided to serve several functions. It provides a structure for grasping for enabling index 106 to be pivoted out of two-piece hinged case part 102. It also provides a limit to the movement of the tools in their respective receiving bores in the index, so that during transportation or other general movement of the case, the tools are prompted to remain in the index and not become dislodged. The frame part also provides a way to shield the upper ends of the tool bits (not shown), to prevent inadvertent contact with the ends of the bits which can result in both dulling of the bits, as well as injury to persons. Also, when the frame part is pivoted back toward the interior wall of the two-piece hinged case part 102, it acts as described herein, as a stand for holding the index 106 up in a variety of possible angles relative to the horizontal (when two-piece hinged case 102 is lying open on a horizontal surface) or to the vertical, when the case is open and upright (the frame could also be pivoted outwardly and downwardly to provide support for the index from the front). Furthermore, if the index and its corresponding frame structure are removed from or otherwise used outside of a case (as discussed elsewhere herein), then the frame structure can be used to support the index at an oblique angle to a horizontal surface such as a table or bench top, or to suspend the index, such as by a pegboard or similar method. All of the foregoing functions are provided, while at the same time, not obscuring visibility of the tools, when the case is opened (or if closed, if a window is provided in the case).

FIG. 11 illustrates how frame part 112 can pivot relative to index 110, and how frame part 114 can pivot relative to frame part 112. The ratchet operation, between ratchet structures 130 and 152, and between 154 and 156, illustrated schematically to the left of index 110, is the same as described with respect to the ratchet structures 122 and 150, relative to the structure of FIG. 10. The “lower” ends of frame part 112 will be sprung outwardly and snapped over the ratchet structures of index 110, while the ends of frame part 114 will be sprung inwardly to fit between the “upper” ends of frame part 112.

Once the indexes and frame parts have been assembled, then the index/frame part assemblies are placed into and attached to their respective two-piece hinged case parts 102, 104. Pivot pins 160 (one is shown enlarged to the left of FIG. 12) are inserted into apertures 121, 136 of indexes 106, 110. Each pivot pin 160 includes resilient barbs at one end and a conical outer end. These conical outer ends are configured to be slidingly received in trapezoidal slots 160 (see FIG. 38) that are formed by pairs of ridges extending inwardly from the inside surfaces of the two-piece hinged case parts. The fit should be tight enough to provide for sufficient friction to prevent indexes 106, 110 from falling out, upon opening of the case, and may be sufficiently tight to provide enough force to keep an index at an elevated pivoted position out of case parts 102, 104, but not so tight as to make pivoting of indexes 106, 110 relative to the two-piece hinged case parts difficult.

Although not shown, it is to be understood that if desired, ratchet structures as described herein could be provided in the interfacing surfaces between the index and the case surfaces, to provide additional rotational positioning control, to enable the index to be placed in any of a plurality of temporary positions and held there, during use.

FIG. 14 shows how index 106 is capable of pivoting relative to two-piece hinged case part 102. FIG. 15 shows how the index 106 and frame part 108 can be made to lie flat in two-piece hinged case part 102. FIG. 16 shows index 106 and frame part 108 lying flat, while index 110 and frame parts 112, 114 are standing upright in two-piece hinged case part 104. Pivoting of frame part 108 relative to index 106 is shown in FIG. 17, while in FIG. 18, it is shown how by appropriate positioning of frame part 108 relative to index 106, index 106 can be supported at an oblique angle relative to the back wall of two-piece hinged case part 102. FIG. 18 also shows the pivoting of frame part 112 relative to index 110, and of frame part 114 relative to frame part 112.

When the indexes 106, 110 have been mounted into two-piece hinged case parts 102, 104, retaining pins 162 (see FIGS. 42-44) may be inserted if desired (FIG. 19), into trapezoidal slots 164 (see also FIG. 38) in two-piece hinged case parts 102, 104. Each retaining pin 162 has one or more side surfaces that are roughened, for example by small barbed projections 163, as shown in schematic form in FIG. 42A, in which the sloping portions of the projections 163 are directed to the “in” direction, and the portions of projections 163 are directed to the “out” direction, so that when each pin 162 is pushed in, there is relatively low resistance, but when a pulling force is exerted on a pin 162, there is substantially increased resistance.

Each retaining pin 162 has a hook 166 that is resilient, and configured to engage adjacent portions of any frame part that passes it, to help hold the indexes and their respective frame parts in place, until affirmatively pulled up and out into their deployed positions. For example, when an index is being pushed down into its case part 102, 104, as the frame part 165 pushes down on hook 166, hook 166 is pushed downward and inwardly, as shown by the arrow in FIG. 43. Once the frame part (shown in broken lines as 165) passes the position of pushed in hook 166, hook 166 is free to resiliently return to its unbent position, preventing frame part 165 from passing hook 166. Preferably, there is sufficient vertical and lateral spacing between a frame part 165 and hook 166, so that when it is desired to flip up the index associated with frame part 165, hook 166 is simply pushed down and held in place, while frame part 165 is lifted up, causing its associated index to be likewise pivoted up.

While the retaining pins 162 are shown as being inserted into case parts 102, 104, it is to be understood that retaining pins 162 could also be integrally formed into case parts 102, 104, either as separate pieces that are later affixed in place, or as projections monolithically formed on case parts 102, 104. In addition, while pins 162 are shown as engaging only frame parts, it is to be understood that pins could also be positioned to releasably engage indexes 106, 110 directly. FIG. 20 shows case 100 partially closed.

FIGS. 21-25 illustrate index cover part 116 (124) which may be identical as illustrated or which may have structural differences not directed to the principles of the invention, which has formed thereon ratchet structures 122 (130) (shown somewhat schematically in FIG. 24), and apertures 121 (138). In addition, FIGS. 21 and 25 particularly illustrate slots 123, 125 located on the inside surface of index cover part 106 (110) that are to receive the side edges of racks 118, 126. FIGS. 23 and 25 particularly illustrate pegs 134, 136 that are engaged by barbs 132 (140) (which, as illustrated may be identical, or which may have other configurations as desired).

FIGS. 26-29 illustrate index cover part 120 (128) which may be identical as illustrated or which may have structural differences not directed to the principles of the invention, which includes barbs 132 (140) (which, as illustrated may be identical, or which may have other configurations as desired) which are configured to engage pegs 134, 136 of index cover part 116 (124). FIGS. 30-32 illustrate a frame part 114′ that is analogous to frame parts 108 and 114 of FIGS. 1-21, having ratchet structures 156′. FIGS. 33-35 illustrate pivot pin 160, incorporating resilient barbs 162, which deflect when the conical end of a pivot pin 160 is pushed into an aperture 121 (138), and snap back once the barbs have been pushed into the interior region of each index cover part 116 (124).

Alternative pivot pin constructions may be employed, e.g., having a split front end, and a conical base or foot; having a domed split front end, and a pyramidal base or foot (which can lock a the trapezoidal slot) so that rotation of an index occurs between the contact surface between the index and the pin, and not between the pin and the slot surfaces); or having a pin having a pyramidal basic that is bowtie-shaped in plan. In each such alternative pin construction the shaft and front end of the pins are bodies of revolution, preferably having circular (although other cross-sections are contemplated) cross-sections, that are split, to permit snap-fit insertion into the apertures in the ends of the indexes.

FIGS. 36, 37 illustrate in further detail the configuration of the interior for two-piece hinged case parts 102, 104, showing slots 160 for receiving the pivot pins for the indexes, and slots 164 for receiving the retaining pins of FIGS. 38-41.

FIGS. 42-44 illustrate a pair of exemplary mating ratchet structures which could be used for any of the pairs of ratchet structures (122, 150; 130, 152; 154, 156) that have been identified herein. The ratchet structures 10 are complementary, and the respective structures can be mounted on or formed in either of the respective facing surfaces, in the index cover parts and frame parts.

In FIGS. 42-44 the matching pair of ratchet structures includes, on one of the mating surfaces, a “female” structure of twelve (although a higher or lower number could be used) radiating ribs 200, that are set in a recess 202, concentrically surrounding a bore or aperture 204. Each of ribs 200 preferably has a triangular cross-section that preferably increases in height and width, with distance from the center 206. On the other mating surface, a “male” structure of twelve (although a like higher or lower number could be used) radiating ribs 210, that are set on a raised circular pedestal 212, concentrically surrounding a cylindrical post 214. Each of ribs 210 likewise preferably has a triangular cross-section that is the same as that of corresponding ribs 200, which preferably increases in height and width, with distance from center 216. Ribs 200 and 210 will be preferably uniformly circumferentially spaced around their respective centers 206, 216, with ribs 210 being offset by, e.g., 15°. When the surfaces are mated, post 214 will be insertingly received in bore or aperture 204, to help keep the surfaces aligned. When a torsional force is exerted, at a certain point the force will exceed the resistance and bending strength of the leg of the frame part upon which one or the other of the ratchet structures is positioned, and the leg will bend sufficient to permit the ribs on that leg to “ride up” and over the ribs of the other corresponding ratchet structure, in the usual manner of such structures. As soon as the torsional force is reduced or removed, the structures will remain in their new positions until acted upon again by a sufficiently strong torsional force.

The ridges of the ratchet structures may have many various cross-sectional configurations, including but not limited to: triangle; half-circle; half-ellipse (width=long axis); half-ellipse (width=short axis); polygon with flat crest; polygon with peaked crest; and three combined curve and straight line configurations, both flat topped and peaked, respectively (often called “obrounds”). In each case, whatever ridge cross-section is selected, it is understood that for the ridges of two opposing ratchet surfaces to interdigitate well, the cross-sections preferably increase in height and width, with distance from the center of the ratchet surface to the periphery.

With each of the ratchet structures described hereinabove, the cross-sectional shape of the ribs may be modified to, for example, semicircular shapes or semi-elliptical shapes, as may be desired. Also, because the ribs extend in complete circles, relative rotation of the components is only limited by any obstructions external to the ratchet structures. In the present invention, as can be seen from the other drawings, the range of pivoting movement is clearly quite large, being the substantial majority of a complete circle in each illustrated embodiment.

Although ratchet structures are preferred for providing rotational control of the frame parts relative to the indexes and to each other (in the case of multiple connected frame parts), it is contemplated that other (usually friction or interference-based) types of rotational control structures may be provided, that are based upon the principle that resistance (up to a certain torsional value) is exerted, so that the frame structure can be pivoted to a desired position, and reliably remain in that desired position, during normal use conditions, until moved again by the user.

FIGS. 45-53 illustrate functional components for alternative ratchet structures. Unlike the previously described ratchet structures of FIGS. 42-44, in which the ribs extend radially from the center of the ratchet structure and make contact and exert force substantially in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation of the index or frame part, the complementary engaging structures extend circumferentially and make contact and exert force in a radial direction.

FIGS. 45-49 illustrate one combination of complementary ratchet rotational control structures, according to a preferred alternative embodiment of the invention. The functional components include a male component 300 and a female component 310. Male component 300 includes base 302, which may be molded into, or extending outwardly from one of the mating surfaces (not shown). From base 302, contoured projecting portion 304, includes a plurality of convex ridges 306, arranged circumferentially about central post 308, which may be provided with a barb 309. Female component 310 likewise includes a base 312, which may be molded into, or extending outwardly from the other of the mating surfaces (not shown). From base 312, contoured recess 314 includes a plurality of concavities 316, separated by crests 318. Centered in recess 314 is aperture 320.

In operation, when the mating surfaces are brought together, such as when a frame component is attached to an index, male component 300 (which may be on the frame) is insertingly received in recess 314 of female component 310 (which may be on the side of the index). Central post 308 (and flexible/resilient barb 309) is received in aperture 320. If a barb 309 is provided, there will be provided an enlarged cavity “behind” aperture 320, to accommodate barb 309, so that barb 309 serves to lock the two structures together. At least a portion of projecting portion 304 will be insertingly received in recess 314. Preferably, the fit between projecting portion 304 and the inside surfaces of recess 314 will be close, but not tight, so that if sufficient torque is applied to the components connected to the respective mating surfaces, the material of components 300 and 310 will distort (without breaking or permanent deformation) sufficient to permit the crests 318 to ride up on the sides of ridges 306, and then snap into the next adjacent troughs 307 between ridges 306. Preferably, the material(s) from which components 300 and 310 are made, will be sufficiently flexible and resilient that the ratcheting action will not require excessive force, but will be strong enough that the structures will remain in their new positions (even when tools are loaded) until acted upon again by a sufficiently strong enough intentionally applied torsional force, and not wear down over the course of a reasonable expected lifespan of the overall device.

It is to be understood that the amount of curvature, and the proportions and dimensions of the complementary surfaces may be varied depending upon the requirements of the particular application. The shapes of the complementary surfaces likewise may be varied as desired. By making the forces to be exerted/overcome to move the respective structures extend in the radial direction, it is believed that a more reliable ratchet action, and more reliable position-holding capability will be provided, as compared to the ratchet structure of FIGS. 42-44.

FIG. 50 is an elevation of an alternative ratchet component. FIG. 51 is an elevation of an alternative ratchet component, which is complementary to the component of FIG. 50. As can be seen, the components of FIGS. 50, 51 are functionally the reverse of those of FIGS. 45-49. It is to be understood that each of these components may be either molded into or extending from the surfaces the respective mating surfaces of the structures to be pivotably, but restrainably, connected. Male component 400 includes base 402, concave contoured projecting portion 404, having concavities 406 and crests 408, and central post 408 (which may include a barb, not shown). Female component 410 includes base 412, recess 414, a plurality of convex projections 416, separated by notches 418, all surrounding a central aperture 420. The operation of components 400, 410 (once their respective mating surfaces have been brought together, concave contoured projecting portion 404 being insertably received into recess 414, and center post 308 inserted into central aperture 420), is analogous to the operation of components 300, 310.

Depending upon such factors as the hardness(es) of the material(s) from which the ratchet components are made, the structures which interface in the ratchet structures, need not be rounded, but can be more angular in cross-section, as shown in FIGS. 52-53.

It is to be understood further that while the male ratchet components have been described and illustrated as having the projecting posts that are received in the apertures of the female ratchet components, in alternative embodiments, the apertures may be disposed on the male ratchet components and the center posts disposed on the female ratchet components.

FIG. 52 is an elevation of an alternative ratchet component. FIG. 53 is an elevation of an alternative ratchet component, which is complementary to the component of FIG. 50. Male component 500 includes base 502, spiked is projection portion 504 with radial spikes 506 and gaps 508, and central post 510. Female component 512 includes base 514, recess 516, radially inwardly projecting teeth 518, gaps 520, and central aperture 522. Again, upon bringing the mating surfaces together, portion 504 is insertably received in recess 516, and center post 510 is received in aperture 522. Spikes 506 will fit into gaps 520, and teeth 518 will fit into gaps 508. The ratchet operation, again, will be similar to that described with the other embodiments of FIGS. 45-49 and 50-51.

Again, it will be understood that the contours of the projections on the male components and the contours of the surfaces of the recesses of the female components are shown by way of example, and the invention is not intended to be limited thereto, as other complementary constructions may be employed, without departing from the scope of the invention.

FIGS. 54-56 illustrate an alternative construction for the retaining pins used for holding down the frames and/or the indexes (if pivotable). Retaining pin 600 includes a central post 602, and two side legs 604, 606, and is configured to have a trapezoidal “footprint” as seen from above in FIG. 56, so as to fit into one of trapezoidal slots, e.g., slot 164, as described hereinabove. Legs 604, 606 are joined to post 602 by webs 608, 610, and have wedge-shaped teeth 612 extending laterally from their outwardly-directed faces. Preferably, retaining pin 600 is slightly wider than the width of the slot into which it will be forcibly fitted, so that legs 604, 606 will be deflected slightly toward one another, and teeth 612 will frictionally engage the adjacent inside surfaces of the slot, to hold it in place. Center post 602 will have a pin 614 extending upwardly from its top surface, upon which retaining arm 616 will be pivotably mounted (see arrows in FIG. 56), preferably with sufficient frictional resistance against pivoting, that retaining arm 616 will not be loose, but will pivot under moderate pressure from one side.

The structures of the rack and frame parts may be modified considerably, and if suitably dimensioned and provided with mating rotational control surfaces, swapped or interchanged as prompted by the requirements of a given application, to accommodate tool parts of various sizes and shapes, without departing from the scope of the invention, and the present invention is not limited to those particular embodiments illustrated herein.

While the present invention is described and illustrated with particular reference to the environment of a drill bit case, in which the indexes and frames (and the bits they hold) occupy substantially the entire interior of the two-piece hinged case parts, it is to be understood that the modular tool holding structure can be applied to other types of tool and part holding cases, such as general multi-part tool cases, in which other tools (both hand and/or power tools) are also contained in the same case, along with the index and frame structure. One or more indexes may be accommodated in each side of a case, as space permits. In addition, the case does not have to be a two-piece hinged case type or even a hinged type to accommodate or take advantage of the present invention. For example, a simple rectangular parallelepiped case, having a snap or slide-on lid can also be adapted, so long as it has the interior structures (e.g., the pegs for defining the slots) for receiving the pivot pins of one or more indexes, and optionally for holding the retaining pins.

The packaging, storage and display apparatus and system of the present invention has many advantages for a manufacturer of goods such as tool and parts kits, as well as a private consumer, in that by being able to select from a variety of racks and a variety of frame structures, gives a manufacturer or individual consumer the flexibility to design and assemble a tool case, to the particular specifications of the particular manufacturer or individual consumer. In addition, the movable and positionable frame structures permit the user of the tools to open the case and position the tools in a desired work orientation that is most suitable to the needs and/or tastes of the particular user. In addition, through the use of the pegs in the case interiors, which define the trapezoidal slots that receive the pivot pins of the indexes, a consumer (whether private or a business consumer) may have a number of different index/frame structures holding different tool bits or parts, which different index/frame structures can be switched in and out of a case, as desired or required by the needs of the user.

In addition, by providing the pivoting one- or two-piece (or more) frames that are pivotable with respect to the index, the index can be removed from a case and set up as a free-standing index, out of its case, by moving the frame around to hold up the index. For this reason, the indexes of the preferred embodiment have solid, unbroken front and back parts, in part to provide a complete finished look, as well as to provide space for indicia indicating the sizes of the respective tools held in the index, if desired. Thus, in commercial embodiments of the invention, tool cases can be sold with selected indexes in them, and indexes and frames of various sizes can be sold separately, or in various combinations.

The foregoing description and drawings merely explain and illustrate the invention, and the invention is not limited thereto, except as those skilled in the art who have the present disclosure before them will be able to make modifications and variations therein without departing from the scope of the invention. 

1. A packaging, storage and display apparatus for articles, comprising: a case, having at least one case section that defines an interior volume for receiving articles; at least one index, pivotably mounted in the at least one case section, the at least one index being pivotably movable between a stowed position within the at least one case section, and a deployed position; the at least one index being operably configured to receive and retain an end of at least one article; a frame structure, pivotably mounted to the index; rotation control structure interconnecting the frame structure and the index, operably configured to enable at least a portion of the frame structure to remain in a first position relative to the index until a force greater than a predetermined amount is applied, prompting the portion of the frame structure to move to one of a plurality of possible second positions relative to the index, and to further enable the portion of the frame structure to remain in the one of a plurality of second positions upon removal of the force, wherein the frame structure includes at least one surface which engages with a corresponding mating surface of the at least one index, and the rotation control structure comprises mating ratchet structures disposed on the at least one surface of the frame structure and the corresponding mating surface of the at least one index.
 2. The packaging, storage and display apparatus for articles according to claim 1, wherein the rotation control structure comprises: at least one male ratchet member, disposed on one of the frame structure and the index, and having an first axis of pivoting, and a projecting contoured portion with contoured ratchet surfaces disposed circumferentially about the first axis of pivoting on a radially outwardly facing surface of the projecting contoured portion; at least one female ratchet member, disposed on the other of the frame structure and the index, and having a second axis of pivoting, and a recess centered on the axis of pivoting, and a plurality of complementary contoured ratchet surfaces disposed circumferentially about the second axis of pivoting on a radially inwardly facing surface of the recess; the at least one first male ratchet member being insertably received in the at least one female ratchet member, the first axis of pivoting being disposed coaxially with the second axis of pivoting.
 3. The packaging, storage and display apparatus for articles according to claim 2, wherein the contoured ratchet surfaces of the male ratchet member comprise a plurality of convex projections.
 4. The packaging, storage and display apparatus for articles according to claim 2, wherein the plurality of complementary contoured ratchet surfaces of the female ratchet member comprise a plurality of concavities.
 5. The packaging, storage and display apparatus for articles according to claim 2, wherein the contoured ratchet surfaces of the male ratchet member comprise a plurality of concavities.
 6. The packaging, storage and display apparatus for articles according to claim 2, wherein the plurality of complementary contoured ratchet surfaces of the female ratchet member comprise a plurality of convex projections.
 7. The packaging, storage and display apparatus for articles according to claim 2, wherein the plurality of complementary contoured ratchet surfaces of the female ratchet member and the contoured ratchet surfaces of the male ratchet member comprise complementary sets of radially extending projections.
 8. A packaging, storage and display apparatus for articles, comprising: a case, having at least one case section that defines an interior volume for receiving articles; at least one index, pivotably mounted in the at least one case section, the at least one index being pivotably movable between a stowed position within the at least one case section, and a deployed position; the at least one index being operably configured to receive and retain an end of at least one article; a frame structure, pivotably mounted to the index; and at least one retaining pin, operably positioned in the at least one case section, for releasably engaging and retaining at least one of the frame structure and the at least one index when the at least one index is disposed in its stowed position.
 9. The packaging, storage and display apparatus for articles, according to claim 8, wherein the at least one retaining pin comprises: a central post, having a retaining arm extending laterally therefrom; at least one flexible side leg, extending substantially parallel to the central post, and connected thereto by a transverse web; at least one tooth, extending laterally from the at least one flexible leg, for frictionally engaging an inside surface of a retaining pin receiving aperture disposed in the at least one case section.
 10. A holder for packaging, storing and displaying articles, comprising: an index, having positioned therewithin a rack which is operably configured to engage and releasably retain an end of at least one article; a frame structure, pivotably mounted to the index; rotation control structure interconnecting the frame structure and the index, for providing resistance to relative rotation between the frame structure and the index, until a torsional force is applied between the frame structure and the index which is in excess of a predetermined amount of torsional force is exerted, whereupon relative pivoting to is enabled, and whereupon removal of the torsional force, in excess of a predetermined amount of torsional force, the frame structure and the index will remain in position relative to each other. 